Ernest Westerback 10/29/2014

Ernie Westerback age 98 born June 24, 1916 and died October 29, 2014.  He was a bowler, golfer, organizer, teacher, woodworker and dancer.  Ernie started his teaching career in a one room country school.  He then shared a two room country school with his wife, Hazel.  He ended his teaching years in a middle school in Cedarburg, WI.  His teaching was marked with creativity and drama.  He met his wife, Hazel in a dance club where she was his brother’s girlfriend. He and Hazel danced beautifully together into their late 80’s.  Ernie started senior bowling and golfing leagues and was active in these until late in life.  His woodworking skills were exceptional.  His prize piece is a grandfather clock that he made with his grandson.  Ernie is one of 10 children of Anna and Matti Westerback who were immigrants from Finland. Ernie and Hazel have one daughter, Lute Berkey (Dan deceased) of River Falls and grandson, Sean (Gale) and their children, Mackenna and Quinn of Anchorage, Alaska.  He spent his last few years living with his daughter and then was lovingly cared for at Comforts of Home in River Falls.  He ended his life with teasing and humor to the very last day with his blue eyes sparkling.  A memorial service will be held at Comforts of Home where he was greatly appreciated and enjoyed.  Cremation services provided by Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services of River Falls.